Places to Play: Monterey Bay Aquarium
The Monterey Bay Aquarium’s 200-plus exhibits of living ocean animals inspire awe among its 2 million annual visitors. Offering incomparable views into the rich marine habitats of Monterey Bay, the nonprofit public institution fulfills its mission to inspire ocean conservation in parallel with being one of California’s top tourist attractions. Entertainment – by playful sea […]
Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach Embraces the Beauty and Bounty of the Oxnard Coast
By J.C. Thomas California’s celebrated coastline is 1,264 miles long, yet there are only a handful of true oceanfront resorts in the entire state. Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach stands out even among such rare offerings – it’s the only all-suite beachfront resort in California. Located on the edge of Oxnard in Ventura County, the […]
12 Beautiful Botanical Gardens in California
Here’s an easy way to feel like you’ve cleansed your soul, just a little bit – take a stroll around your local botanical gardens. There are around 100 botanical gardens in California that are open to the public, according to Botanic Gardens Conservation International. They vary considerably in size and scope, but all have in […]
Museum Monday: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, Santa Barbara
If you’re exploring Santa Barbara with kids, a visit to MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation is a must. This interactive science museum is in a prime location on lower State Street, right next to the train station and minutes from beaches and the pier. You can’t miss the striking museum – a […]
Indulge Your Senses in Santa Barbara at La Playa Inn
By Jon Bogart Life’s daily demands propel our minds to wander, as we zoom in and out of computer screens and traffic tie-ups, to a time and place where we can unwind and rejuvenate. A laid-back vibe, fresh ocean air, a taste of the Mediterranean beauty and climate , with shopping, entertainment and dining options to […]
Hitching a Ride on a Stagecoach in Paso Robles
Looking for fun things to do for the whole family in Paso Robles? You’ll never forget the unique experience of a stagecoach ride and ranch tour and at Harris Stage Lines. By J.C. Thomas The stagecoach has a prominent place in the western imagination, familiar from countless movies and TV shows, the Wells Fargo logo […]
8 Reasons to Pick Paso Robles for Wine Tasting
And a Spotlight on Four Fantastic Paso Robles Wineries As the world’s fourth-largest wine producer, California has no shortage of destinations promising a world-class wine-tasting experience. The state boasts 142 AVAs, federally recognized American Viticultural Areas. Claiming no fewer than 12 of them (the acclaimed Paso Robles AVA along with 11 sub-AVAs) is Paso Robles, […]
Make Yourself at Home at the Beach House Inn, Santa Barbara
It’s always fun to imagine living full-time in a destination you’re only visiting, no matter how realistic or far-fetched the idea might be. The fantasy feels especially real when you find a place to stay that evokes the feeling of a home – somewhere like the Beach House Inn in Santa Barbara. This boutique hotel […]
Places to Play: Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Since its founding in 1926, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden has been one of the city’s top attractions. It feels safe to say that locals and visitors have never been so appreciative of such a safe, scenic and peaceful outdoor space. At this time, the garden is open to the public seven days a week, and […]
Places to Play: Santa Barbara Zoo
As a destination blessed by an abundance of loveliness, it’s no surprise that Santa Barbara has a superb zoo. The AZA-accredited Santa Barbara Zoo covers 30 acres and is home to more than 500 animals. Among them are giraffes, western lowland gorillas, a flock of flamingos, and this year’s new arrivals (and brand-new parents!), African […]
Places to Play: The Madonna Inn
Eat, stay and play at San Luis Obispo’s kitschiest icon The Madonna Inn, a famous hotel, restaurant and bakery just off Highway 101, is a whimsical icon of California’s Central Coast. Dating to 1965, the delightfully wackadoodle property holds a place in the imaginations of all generations of Californians. Those of a certain age remember […]
Discover Incredible Eats in SLO
By J.C. Thomas San Luis Obispo is well established as a fantastic destination for foodies. Its Central Coast setting means the city is surrounded by agricultural riches including local wines and a world of fresh, seasonal produce, along with the freshest fish and seafood from nearby Morro Bay. SLO embraces artisanal food culture and has […]